Volunteer support worker jobs

As a Support Worker at Ace of Clubs drop-in day centre supporting people who are homeless and facing adversity, you will play a key role in supporting individuals who may be navigating chaotic lifestyles, trauma, and multiple disadvantages. You will provide practical and emotional support, help people access essential services, and work to empower them to move towards independence.

Your role will involve working directly with service users, managing case records, liaising with partner agencies, and contributing to the smooth running of our busy centre. Ultimately, you will support people to overcome barriers, develop essential skills, and build confidence in navigating life challenges and providing advocacy where needed.  In particular, you will be on duty as Support Worker during our busy, daily lunchtime service - responding to the needs of a variety of guests – on a busy day we can reach 150 – 200 guests visiting our service.

In addition, Ace of Clubs works with a wide range of volunteers and partners on a daily basis including food partners, health partners, corporate, individual and client volunteers.  Your role will also be required to support the team in the smooth functioning of these areas, for example liaising with partners on site, showing around volunteers or feeding back any issues during lunch service.

You will also be required to support the Centre Manager with the operations and building’s co-ordination, including carrying out weekly health and safety checks as required, i.e. fire alarm checks, legionella checks etc., meeting onsite contractors, counting and logging cash takings, responding and filtering the central email account and making food and supplies orders. You will be provided with comprehensive training in these areas.

Contract:Permanent, full time

Salary:£37,000 - £43,000 per annum

Location:Hybrid working, with a minimum of two days per week in the office at one of our sites: Radcliffe, Burford, Bromsgrove, Newport, Sheffield or Exeter

Closing date:Tuesday 9 December 2025
Interviews:  Thursday 18 December 2025

We’re recruiting a Volunteering Systems & Engagement Partner who will play a key role in shaping the future of volunteering at Blue Cross. In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the development and continuous improvement of our volunteering systems and programmes, ensuring volunteers and volunteer managers have the best possible experience. If you’re passionate about volunteering, confident working with digital platforms, and motivated by making a meaningful difference across the organisation, this could be the perfect role for you.

More about the role

You’ll be the driving force behind our volunteering systems and digital platforms, acting as Product Owner and ensuring these tools are effective, user-friendly, and continually evolving. Working closely with colleagues across People Services, Information Services, and Digital, you’ll lead key development projects, use data to inform decision-making, and support the delivery of our volunteering strategy and organisational objectives.

A big part of your role will be building strong relationships with volunteer managers and senior leaders. You’ll offer expert guidance, support programme development, and champion a positive, inclusive volunteering culture that recognises and values the contributions of volunteers from all backgrounds.

About you

You’ll bring significant experience in volunteering management or systems, with the ability to work both strategically and hands-on. You’ll be equally comfortable managing projects, improving processes, and guiding senior stakeholders. Adaptable, resilient, and highly organised, you’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities shift and innovation is encouraged. Most importantly, you’ll be committed to championing an exceptional volunteer experience and embedding our values of compassion, courage, and inclusivity.

 Essential Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• Proven experience in volunteering management and/or volunteer programme development.
• Experience in managing Volunteer Management Systems or equivalent digital platforms.
• Experience in project or programme management within a volunteering context.
• Knowledge of the voluntary sector and the needs of volunteers and volunteer managers.
• Experience in developing or contributing to organisational strategy and planning.
• Excellent communication, engagement, and influencing skills across all levels of the organisation.
• UK driving licence or equivalent.
• The ability to demonstrate and apply Blue Cross values of compassion, courage, and inclusivity.

How to apply 

Click the apply button to complete your application. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of interest, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Blue Cross benefits

Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today.  

In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can. We want you to be happy working for us and will do everything we can to make sure you are.  

Our generous benefits package includes: 

• Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)  
• Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support  
• Free access to GP via MetLife- 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family   
• Health cash plan  
• Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme  
• Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution   
• Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support.  
• Life assurance   
• 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance   
• Enhanced family friendly policies   
• Recognition scheme   
• Annual volunteer days  
• Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers 

To read more about the benefits Blue Cross has to offer, please visit the 'why work for us' page on our website.

We're looking for a kind, empathetic and resilient Support worker to join our Homelessness and complex needs Service in Kensington & Chelsea.

£28,808.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* Free DBS
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

Support Workers will devise person centred support plans with customers to help them develop the life skills they require to meet their needs and goals. This will include sign posting them to the local drug and alcohol services to address substance misuse issues. They will work with customers to promote social inclusion and alongside other members of the team to promote independent living, encouraging customers to maximise their skills and choices.

Staff are expected to work 8 hours daily on a shift rota basis. This will include weekend working. Shifts are 7.30am to 3.30pm and 2.00pm to 10pm.

The fixed term contract is for 6 months.

What you'll do:
* If a need arises, deliver all aspects of support to enable a customer to develop independent living skills as appropriate to the individual needs of the customer.
* Support customers to maintain their tenancies.
* Support to budget and prevent rent arrears.
* Assess their practical and emotional needs to incorporate in their support plan.
* To develop support plans and risk management plans.
* Carry out weekly health and safety checks.
* Carry out security duties / welfare checks to ensure the safety of the customers and premises
* Monitor the CCTV throughout the shift

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
* Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
* Prefers working as part of a group or team
* Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
* Flexible
* Open to feedback and self development
* Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
* Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
* Is confident with high levels of self-esteem
* Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
* Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
* Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
* Ability to cope positively with challenging and diverse behaviour

What you'll bring:

Essential:
* NVQ Level 2 or equivalent or experience within charity/social care sector

Desirable:
* Relevant specialism experience

About us:
Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please full Job description on our website

We’re looking for a youth worker to plan, deliver and facilitate educational and cultural activities to separated children (up to 21 years old) in the context of an interactive youth club held weekly in partnership with CARAS (Community Action for Refugees & Asylum Seekers) in South West London. Although you will prepare and deliver the materials, you will be supported by the Programme Coordinator from CARAS, along with CARAS volunteers.

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference to the lives of separated children who are newly arrived in the UK.

Role: Youth Worker – Club Class in South West London
Salary: £20 per hour
Hours: Six hours a week (three hours on a Wednesday and three hours a week for planning/prep/meetings) throughout the year
Contract: Freelance
Location: Club Class sessions are held in South West London
Reports to: Programme Manager

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Location: Based in Crisis Skylight South Wales

Contract: Fixed term contract for 12 months (parental leave cover)

About the role

The Lead Worker - Coaching role at Crisis Skylight South Wales is a varied and fulfilling role. You will assist people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless by assessing their needs and offering appropriate interventions (coaching, information, advice and guidance, advocacy and direct support) and use a variety of communication skills to develop, follow and review a personalised plan to end their homelessness sustainably.

You will have access to regular one to one supervision sessions and facilitated reflective practice sessions to support the positive impact of the role; working collaboratively with internal colleagues and external services is also an important aspect of the role to ensure that individuals are able to access the services they need.

About you

• Ability to motivate and encourage individuals to maintain their access to the service by working through the changes they have identified and supporting them to recognise their progress.
• Current knowledge of health and safety issues and safeguarding procedures to ensure a safe environment is provided for individual’s accessing the service, staff, volunteers, supporters and visitors.
• Being able to support team members, including volunteers, by sharing your knowledge and skills and by working constructively together to end the homelessness of the individuals accessing the service.

• Ability to collaborate with partner organisations to maintain service knowledge, referral pathways and manage safeguarding concerns. When necessary, advocate for individuals to ensure that they are able to receive, engage or continue to access services appropriate to their needs.

• Knowledge and experience of coaching which assists individuals experiencing homelessness through a process of strengths based personal change; coupled with the ability to recognise when other interventions like IAG, advocacy or direct assistance may be needed.

• You may have experience in working within a relevant sector such as homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol treatment, criminal justice, domestic abuse, modern day slavery or employability support. You may also hold or develop one or more areas of expertise such as housing access, homelessness / housing legislation, welfare benefits, employment support, health services, drug and alcohol treatment, MAPPA, MARAC or criminal justice services. This may enhance the effectiveness of the services’ ability to support members and engage effectively with partners.

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.

Working at Crisis

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage.
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy.
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 7 December 2025 at 23:59

Interview date and location: In person, on Thursday 18 December 2025 at Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA1 4DQ

Interview process: Competency-based Interview

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094

Are you looking for a rewarding job with flexibility to work around your commitments, whilst making positive changes in young people’s lives?

You will be offered available shifts (day, evening, night, weekends and bank holidays) in advance and at short notice – you choose which ones you want to work.

 is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, increasing life skills and self-confidence, and improving emotional wellbeing and mental health.

We are looking for Bank Supported Housing Support Workers to join our . Gareth Stacey House and Lansworth House are our 24-hour supported housing services in central Brighton and Hove offering high levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25. The services have up to 20 bedspaces, with shared communal facilities; the services support young people to manage their daily living activities in areas including finances and budgeting, developing life and work skills, and managing self-care.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and support residents into independent accommodation. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building

Our Bank Support Worker roles are similar to our Support Workers roles, but they work on a more flexible, temporary basis – they are great way into the organisation and can be a stepping stone into other roles. 

In this rewarding role you will work proactively and creatively alongside young people providing support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building. You will contribute to the smooth and safe running of the services by providing consistency and reliability.

You will ideally have experience of working with a similar client group and a good understanding of the key risks, challenges and opportunities for young people.

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. 

Please note this is a rolling advert; applications will be reviewed regularly, and suitable applicants will be invited to attend interviews on a rolling basis.

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact or 

Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at 

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.

ID: 1627 LifeSkills Support Worker

Service: LifeSkills​

Salary:

-       Starting at £25,221 FTE per annum, rising to £27,780 FTE per annum (pro rata for corresponding part-time hours)

- Additionally, £480 home-based allowance FTE per annum

Location: Homebased Role covering a specific geographical location (Stockton-on-Tees/Middlesbrough)  

Significant travel required within the Stockton-on-Tees and Middlesbrough area.

Hours: Part-time (between 18.5 and 25 hours per week)

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details.

Contract: Permanent

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

This is an exciting opportunity for a Support Worker to join our friendly team and help support the continued work of our LifeSkills Plus team across Stockton and Middlesbrough. You will provide intensive support to adults with complex needs who are further away from employment or training by using a strength based approach, ensuring those accessing the programme receive appropriate practical and emotional support by visiting them at home or in the community.

The LifeSkills programme supports individuals and families to build their confidence, social networks, financial and employability skills. The LifeSkills Support Worker will work closely with the linked LifeSkills programme, entitled LifeSkills Open.

Main Responsibilities:

· Deliver a range of support and interventions to individuals with complex needs that focus on their strengths and which enable them to consider options and think differently, helping them to feel more empowered and able to face new challenges

· Support and deliver activities that increase confidence, improve mental health, widen social networks, help with budgeting and enable individuals to seek training, work or volunteering opportunities.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

· Experience of working in services that deliver positive outcomes for individuals and their families

· Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to present to a range of audiences and to communicate effectively; and proven ability to develop and sustain relationships with colleagues, partners and stakeholders.

· ability to work collaboratively with individuals to identify their support needs, plan, implement and monitor emotional and practical support.

· Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service – Children and Adult Workforce, Enhanced with Children’s Barred List

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holidays

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

·Click the “Redirect to Recruiter” link above and fill out our digital application form

·Closing Date: Monday 1st December at 23:59

For direct queries or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the selection process or flexible working requests, please email Claire Berwick 

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role, and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

Family Support Worker 

£24,000 pa + Company Car and benefits (including 25 days annual leave, reward scheme and pension)

To cover Southampton, including Dorset, Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire and Isle of Wight

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing, with the aim of reaching more families in need.

About the role:

We are looking to appoint a Family Support Worker, on a full time basis (35 hours per week), to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of our Southampton Care Team.

Reporting to the Family Support Manager of the Southampton Care Team and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness.

Having worked in a demanding and emotional environment you have a genuine interest in building supportive relationships and helping people; and having provided bereavement support to families, you understand processes of grief, loss and change - and how best to help others deal with its impact.

What we’re looking for:

· An experienced child health, education or social care professional - applications will be particularly welcome from those who have worked in a community environment and those with a recognised qualification in education, health or social care

· A warm, inclusive approach to achieving goals quickly and correctly

· Practiced in child protection, information sharing and the rules around data protection - you lead by example, drawing on your own professional experience and working within established guidelines

· Practical and people-oriented - you will thrive working at a fast pace whilst maintaining accuracy and be a confident user of IT (including MSOffice)

· A persuasive and open communicator - you will work collaboratively with your team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service and support fundraising colleagues by writing case studies and family updates

· A practical knowledge of diversity issues affecting children, young people and their families – aware that being responsive to others needs and concerns, is essential.

What we offer:

We are a Best Companies Two-Star rated organisation, an outstanding place to work! We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, including:

· Flexible working hours to balance home and working life

· Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand

· Company car for front line care posts

· 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 years to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)

· Time off in Lieu

· Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts

· Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes

· A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme

· Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year

· Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%

· The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping

· Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

As part of our learning and development Anne Harris Skills Development Programme, we aim to provide a high level of training and development opportunities for all staff, so you are able to perform to the best of your ability, achieve individual and team objectives aligned to Rainbow Trusts strategic plan, supporting staff to be their best and feel a valued member of a high performing organisation.

Our Family Support Teams are given the opportunity to complete a number of diverse training courses in their first 12 months, including but not limited to: Mental Health First Aid, Makaton, introduction to play, drawing and talking training.

The programme aims to provide a building block for you to individually tailor your own learning and development needs.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

Please visit our website and apply online.

Please disclose on your application form if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Interviews will take place at our Southampton Care Team office with the dates to be confirmed. We will only contact those applicants who have been successful. If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know.

There will be a requirement for flexible working and a full current driver’s licence to accommodate team and family need. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Reference Number:  V561

Job Title: Volunteer Centre Officer

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne (Hybrid – office, home, community based)

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract until 31 July 2026

Hours: 14 hours p/w (potential to increase to 17.5 hrs, funding dependent)

Salary: £25,625 Full Time Equivalent (£10,250 for 14 hrs per week)

Job Family: Job Family 3

Line Manager: Project Manager: Newcastle

Start Date:  ASAP

Interview Dates: To be confirmed

Volunteering Matters  

Who we are
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change.

 What we do
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people.

 How we do this

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities.

We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part.·

We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change.

We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities.

We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects.

We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better.

It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong. 

Role Purpose

We have been operating Volunteer Centre Newcastle (VCN) since 2005. The Volunteer Centre provides a wide range of support, around all things volunteering, to over 1200 charities, organisations, and groups locally. We also support 2500+ members of the public each year, who are interested in volunteering and need some support to get started.

As our Volunteer Centre Officer, you will play an important role in promoting and supporting volunteering across Newcastle. You will help more people get involved in volunteering and make sure that volunteering is valued and recognised across the city.

We are looking for someone who understands “good practice” around volunteering, can work flexibly, and who shows a strong commitment to our organisations values.

Working alongside the Volunteer Centre Manager, you will:

Support charities, organisations and groups in that involve volunteers

This includes giving advice on how to manage volunteers, helping them create and promote volunteer roles, supporting them to take on more volunteers, offering guidance on policies and processes, delivering training, taking part in volunteer network forums, and helping solve problems when needed.

Support people who want to volunteer, helping them take their next steps

You will talk with members of the public to understand their interests, goals, and any support needs. You will match them with suitable volunteering opportunities. You will offer information, advice, and guidance to help them get involved in volunteering across Newcastle through one-to-one appointments and in person events.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide effective support running a busy Volunteer Centre, working closely with various other stakeholders such as colleagues, volunteers, partners, Newcastle City Council and the public

• Supporting the Project Manager to manage a group of internal volunteers, ensuring they are valued and supported

• Supporting the city’s volunteering database which is hosted on VCN website, ensuring opportunities are kept up to date, and helping individuals to find and apply for a suitable role

• Provide a wide range of support to organisations or groups who involve volunteers  – providing advice on guidance on volunteering policies and practices, helping to identify and develop new volunteering roles, advertising roles, and more  

• Supporting the Project Manager to deliver organisational training, forums and networks

• Developing, designing, and publishing marketing and promotional materials related to Volunteer Centre Newcastle and distributing these in various locations across the city

• Provide effective support to ensure we have an appropriate, up to date and engaging website and social media channels. 

• Being a champion of volunteering, taking part in events, talks, or engaging with traditional media sources to promote volunteering, the benefits to individuals and organisations  

• Help to ensure the Volunteer Centre is delivered in line with Volunteering Matters organisational policies, including risk management, quality assurance and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion   

• Administrative tasks including the use of Office 365 and internal databases and files.

• Attending meetings and forums with other partners and Volunteer Centers locally, reporting back on our successes and challenges

• Ensuring monitoring, impact and evaluation information and data is collected and recorded, and that Volunteer Centre Newcastle meets its agreed targets, reporting format and schedule.  

Skills Required

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of “best practice” in all areas of Volunteer Management

• Excellent people skills, able to build professional, long-term relationships with various stakeholders, to influence and motivate others  

• Excellent organisational skills including strong attention to detail, the ability to manage a busy workload and prioritise effectively

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including being able to have strategic conversations with external partners one minute, and talk to an anxious volunteer the next  

• Excellent IT skills including the use of Office 365, Microsoft Teams and other software packages   

• A creative approach to problem solving, and ability to work independently and use own initiative  

• Good skills around creating content for websites, social media, and promotional materials

Essential experience required

• Excellent experience in all areas of Volunteer Management

• Experience working with, or supporting, volunteers

• Excellent working with as part of a team in a busy environment, with a proven ability to communicate effectively

• Experience of achieving high targets, managing a busy workload, working independently, using own initiative, and working to strict deadlines   

Desirable skills / experience

· Full UK Driving License and access to own car

· Experience of delivering training, or networking forums

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with relevant knowledge, skills and experience, as well as commitment to our organisational values, rather than any specific qualifications.

Essential Requirements for all staff

· Must adhere to the organisation’s Code of Conduct and uphold its values at all times.

· Proficient in Microsoft 365, particularly Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel, with the ability to manage email communications and collaborate digitally.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write clearly and professionally in English.

· Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, managing time and priorities in a busy environment.

· For remote roles, candidates must be self-starters who can work with minimal supervision, stay organised, and remain motivated to meet deadlines and deliver quality outcomes.

· Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving and information sharing.

· Adhere to all health and safety policies and procedures, and promptly report any hazards, near misses, or incidents in line with organisational guidelines

Our Values & Way of Working

In all that we do we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.

We offer flexible working by default. Our staff have significant flexibility when it comes to place of work, working days/hours, and are empowered with the responsibility of managing their own diary.

Part of your working week must be based in local Newcastle communities, meeting charities, organisations, groups, volunteers, colleagues and other stakeholders. For the remainder of the time, you can work from home (must be local) or from our Newcastle office premises (NE1 5JE).  When home based, internet access to enable remote working is essential.  IT equipment will be supplied.

Diversity & Inclusion

Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.

Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter. 

Benefits

Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer:

· Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work) 

· Unlimited Annual Leave 

· Employee Pension scheme 

· Life Assurance 

· Cycle to Work Scheme 

· Season Ticket Loan 

· Employee Assistance Programme 

· Enhanced sick and family leave.

· Lifestyle Discount Scheme

We are also open to discussing job share applications.

GDPR Statement

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.

Policy on AI-Generated Applications 

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI. 

To Apply

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.

We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community. 

Right to Work in the UK
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help. 

We're looking for someone a lttle bit special - someone who believes in the deep potential of children who are not thriving elsewhere in life and who has the experience, passion, energy and the drive to go the extra mile on these young people’s behalf.

The position is an exciting dual role:

1. Volunteering & People Manager (80% of workload)

You'll become a key cog at the heart ofFree to Be's management team, taking lead responsibility for volunteer and staff recruitment and retention, holding and delivering our volunteering strategy, launching a new training infrastructure through 2026-27, and heading up 'all things volunteering'. With one direct report, you'll aim to grow volunteer numbers year on year, ensure volunteers are well matched, and well supported, onto our residential projects, and lead on quality assurance, including volunteering standards concerns/grievances.  Alongside our Services, Operations and Fundraising Managers, you'll be a core management team member holding shared responsibility for the day to day running of an impactful and growing children's mental health and adventure charity and will work closely with our inspiring and supportive CEO to set longer-term key strategic goals underpinning Free to Be's future development.

2. Residential Project Lead Coordinator (20% of role)

Our residentials are fun, immersive, tiring (in all the right ways), impactful and inspiring. A core aspect of all Free to Be Kids staff's roles is leading circa 8-10 of our residential projects across each year - working on the ground with the children, leading the volunteers & staff team on project, and helping make the projects special, safe, and transformative for vulnerable young people, many of whom have damaged confidence, low self-worth, or other social-emotional needs. 

Attendance at approximately 8-10 five-six night residential projects per year outside London is a core component of this role. As a manager, you'd likely attend 8-10 residentials in year 1 to build familiarity with both the projects and our volunteer base, with this dropping to c.8 per year thereafter.

On offer to the right candidate:

Salary: Circa £38,000 - £40,000, dependent on experience.

Hours: Fulltime: 37.5 hours per week. Essential attendance on at c.8-10 residential projects a year.

Leave: 25 days per year, plus bank holidays and up to 13 additional pre-set discretionary reward days in September and during the Christmas period. A substantial perk of the role is potential to take up to 4 consecutive weeks off to travel each September.

Other benefits: 4% employer pension contribution paid on full base salary, rising by 1% per year of service, up to a maximum of 7%; hybrid working; office with great transport links; flexible working (outside core hours); employee reward scheme; tight-knit, fun, vibrant, cohesive staff team with great morale.

Based: Hybrid – our small office in Waterloo, London. Hybrid working is well established with the majority of the team splitting time around 50:50 between the office and home.

To start: Early January 2026. 

Who we’re looking for:

Our next Volunteering Manager hero. You'll be fun, flexible, energised, experienced in work with young people with addtional needs, and looking to join an organisation you can believe in and who in return will believe and invest in you.

Kind, empathetic, resilient and efficient, you’ll have a real affinity for supporting others - whether volunteers, more junior staff, or children themselves. We're looking for someone who loves working with young people, as you'll be role modelling that commitment and energy to our volunteers and playing a leading role in holding our already thriving team culture. Volunteer Management or HR experience is a bonus, and capacity and personality to quickly pick that up is a must, but ultimately we're looking for the right organisational fit - someone who believes in what we do and wants to step up to join a management team working hard to deliver it. 

You’ll have the flexibility to work away from home on (up to) 10 five to six day residential projects per year. Ideally, you’ll also have experience of leading projects for children – whether residential or non-residential - for example as a teacher, or running groups in other settings. Experience of working on or leading residentials projects themselves is not required but may be an advantage.

We are a small, vibrant, 'can do', friendly staff team of 10, supported by a committed volunteer base of around 300.

We are particularly keen to encourage applications from those who can help us represent the lived experiences of our children through their own lived experience or background.

To apply:

See full Job Description & Person Specification on our website.

Send a copy of your CV or up to date LinkedIn profile, as well as a covering letter and introductory short video, by the closing date of 10pm, Wednesday 26th November 2025.

Covering letters should be very approximately 1 to 1.5 sides A4 and address the question of: ‘Why this role, why now’, as well as ‘what strengths, experience and skills you would bring into the role’.We also ask for a short (1-3 minutes) informal video introducing yourself and touching on the person specification. We have found this helps bring the strongest applications to life, and filters out AI driven applications.

Selection Process and Timeline:

Selection will be via two stage interview. As there is only a short turnaround from application closure on 26th November to 1st stage interviews 1st-2nd December, we will assess applications and offer interview slots throughout the window. However, you will not be disadvantaged if you need to wait till the closing date to submit.

1st stage interviews: Mon 1st - Tues 2nd December (virtual)

2nd stage final interviews: Mon 8th - Tues 9th December (in-person preferred, London Waterloo)

Please hold interview dates as alternate dates are unlikely to be available.

​The role requires an Enhanced DBS check and existing right to work in the UK.

If you have any questions about the role, contact us via our website and we’d be happy to arrange an informal chat. We look forward to hearing from you!

About Carers Bucks

At Carers Bucks we are committed to making a lasting and positive difference in the lives of unpaid carers across Buckinghamshire - from children as young as five, to adults supporting loved ones, through physical or mental illness, frailty, disability or addiction. We understand that caring can impact a person’s health, wellbeing and future opportunities and we are here to change that. 

Our vision is that every unpaid carer in Buckinghamshire feels recognised, respected and supported in their role – so they can access the right support, at the right time, in a way that works for them – regardless of age, circumstance and cultural or socio-economic background.

Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We foster a positive, supportive working culture where wellbeing matters, and professional development is encouraged and celebrated. 

Our values reflect our core principles and culture. They guide how we engage with service users and how we work as a team. We are

Kind                 
We understand the challenges carers face. With real compassion and empathy we are able to build confidence and resilience in both carers and colleagues. 
Inclusive           
We adapt our services to meet the diverse needs of all carers, making sure they feel seen, supported and empowered in their role. 
Collaborative     
We work together – with carers, partners and one another – to listen, learn and improve outcomes. 
Innovative         
We are curious to find better ways to support carers. We are open to new ideas and committed to improving what we do. 
Reliable             
We are informed, trustworthy and confidential. We do what we say we will - every time. 

As a trusted local charity with over 20 years’ experience, we are continually evolving to meet carer’s needs and improve access to support.  

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced, motivated and highly organised Support Worker to join our dedicated Young Carers Service team. Our team of support workers focus on supporting young carers throughout their caring journey, ensuring they feel understood, valued and empowered whilst also providing the opportunities and practical support the young people need to thrive and continue their caring role.

As a Support Worker you will be responsible for assessing the needs of young carers and ensuring they receive appropriate support through Carers Bucks services or other local agencies. The role includes engaging in one-to-one support, delivering targeted group sessions and facilitating clubs and activities. Support Workers will identify and engage young carers through partnerships with schools, health and social care and VCSE communities. 

Your role will be a mixture of working in the community, from home and in our Aylesbury office. Your principal geographic area will be South Bucks. 

Key Responsibilities These include but are not limited to:
1.     Operational Coordination and Planning
·       Receive referrals and undertake YC assessments in your geographical area. Allocate young people to the appropriate level of support they require to fulfil their caring role.
·       Provide planned and time limited one to one support for carers with clear outcomes, using tools such as ‘my life now’ to measure impact of support.
 

2. Service Delivery and Quality
·       Deliver group programmes in response to the needs in your local geographical area, whilst working to available resources.
·       Work with staff and volunteers to deliver regular clubs and activities which provide young carers with the opportunity to have time away from their caring role. 
 

 3. People and Team Development
·       Build a strong relationship with young carers and families in your geographical area and work with the Young Adult Carer Support worker to transition them through services.
·       Work effectively as part of a high performing team to ensure that needs of carers are met. 
 

4. Safeguarding and Inclusion
·       Have a strong understanding of how to receive, respond to and record safeguarding concerns and escalate to a line manager in a timely manner.
·       Demonstrate a strong commitment to implementing and upholding Carers Bucks’ safeguarding policy in everyday practice.

5.     Partnerships and Representation
·       Provide support to schools in a geographical area to run young carers groups, targeted support sessions or drop in’s. 
·       Collaborate with the Adult Carers team and partner organisations to further support carers and make referrals to appropriate services accordingly.
 

6. Performance, Data and Reporting
·       Maintain accurate and up to date records on all aspects of work carried out for monitoring and evaluation purposes.
·       Produce case study summaries to evidence the impact and outcomes of work, in line with requests from the line manager.

About you

Qualifications and Experience

·       Background in youth work, education, social care or the voluntary sector. 
·       Experience of working directly with young people and/or unpaid carers.
·       Experience providing information, advice and guidance to young people and their families.
 

Knowledge and Understanding
·       Strong understanding of young people’s development and the challenges faced by young carers.
·       Strong understanding of safeguarding principles and demonstrated experience in implementing effective safeguarding practices to protect individuals. 
·       Understanding of how compassion, collaboration and reliability build trust and improve outcomes for carers. 
 

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, adaptable across audiences.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload.
• Competent IT user with experience of standard office packages and electronic record systems.
•  

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to the values and ethos of Carers Bucks.
• Full UK driving license and access to own vehicle (travel across Bucks required.)
• Willingness to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends. Candidates will typically work Thursday evenings until 7pm (usually two times per month). TOIL will be provided for out-of-hours working.

Why join us?
We have recently published our one-year strategy, guiding us through the next phase of our development, ensuring our services are embedded with partners in the community and strengthening the way we work, both with our adult team and with volunteers.

By becoming part of our team, you will:

• Make a lasting impact: Your work will directly support unpaid Young Carers and Young Adult Carers, helping to reduce isolation, promote wellbeing and improve access to support.
• Be part of a supportive, passionate team: You will collaborate with dedicated colleagues who are committed to making a difference and supporting one another.
• Access opportunities for growth: We will support your professional development with training, learning opportunities, and the chance to shape a growing area of work.
• Enjoy flexibility and balance: We offer flexible working arrangements.

If you are seeking a role where your contributions are recognised, your work drives real impact and you can help shape something meaningful, we would love to connect with you.

Employee Benefits Include:

·   25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increases with length of service)

·   3x Christmas Closure Days

·   Up to 5 days paid Carers Leave

·   Regular training and development opportunities
 

Diversity and Inclusion

We want our services to be representative of the community we serve. We are proud of the diversity within Buckinghamshire and particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
 

How to apply
Please submit a CV and covering letter via our online portal.  Successful candidates will be invited to a first interview by 24th November 2025.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. If you require any adjustments to the interview process or would like to discuss your access needs in advance, please let us know by emailing us (email address available on our online portal)- we will do our best to accommodate you. 

Benefits

25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increases with length of service)
3x Christmas Closure Days
Up to 5 days paid Carers Leave
Regular training and development opportunities

Location: Loughborough, England (Travel required to all Baca Services locations)

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary: £24,754 - £28,454 per annum FTE

Working Hours: 37.5 hrs per week (including evening and weekend hours on a rota)

Start date: January 2026

About Us:

Baca is dedicated to providing support and care to 16 to 18 year old unaccompanied asylum seeking children who are newly arrived in the country, helping them rebuild their strength, dignity, and hope for the future. We work closely with social workers and representatives from other agencies to benefit the young people in our care.

Role Overview:

As a Support Worker, you will be a key worker for several young people in Baca's care, providing high-quality holistic and therapeutic support for their transition to adulthood. You will deliver services in line with Baca’s Theory of Change, ensuring the highest quality outcomes in physical and emotional wellbeing, education, employment, training, social engagement, and personal safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high-quality support and care to young people, ensuring their holistic development.
• Work proactively to safeguard young people and resolve any issues that arise.
• Be a role model, offering care and compassion without discrimination.
• Support young people in developing essential life skills and preparing for independent living.
• Engage young people in education, vocational training, and hobbies.
• Foster positive relationships within the community and support social engagement.
• Plan and participate in day trips and annual residential weeks.
• Develop partnerships with social workers, solicitors, teachers, volunteers, and other partners.
• Maintain excellent communication and keep accurate records.

Requirements:

• Alignment with Baca’s values and mission.
• Ability to respond to change and work as part of a diverse team.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to take initiative.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and issues faced by unaccompanied young people.
• Relevant training or willingness to complete essential training within the first year.
• Experience working with young people, especially in cross-cultural settings.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and ICT skills.
• Driving licence and access to a car.
• Enhanced DBS check required.

Personal Attributes:

• Approachable, reliable, and a strong team worker.
• Supportive, responsible, and personable.
• Flexible and able to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Holidays and benefits:

• 33 days’ holiday a year (pro rata for part-time staff) including bank holidays.
• Pension scheme
• Health & Wellbeing programme
• Free parking
• Casual dress

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young asylum seekers and have the skills and attributes we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.

Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK for this role as Baca is not on the Home Office list.

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Social Care Homelessness and Complex Needs service in Kensington and Chelsea.

£28,808.00.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:

Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
Free DBS
Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
Fully paid induction programme and further training
ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
Cycle to work scheme
Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
Online wellbeing resources
A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

For a full job description, please visit our website.

The Heaney Hub Cluster is an intensive supported housing scheme for the most challenging customers in the Kensington & Chelsea. The majority of the customers come with a history of entrenched rough sleeping; often coupled with enduring mental health difficulties. The aim is to offer a home to those who would have difficulty finding accommodation because of their lifestyle choices involving extreme drug and alcohol misuse. The high-support hostel caters for eleven service users with complex needs and is staffed 24-hours a day with the minimum of three staff on duty. The medium support services are staffed from 9am to 9pm where the customers present with varying degrees of mental health issues. The Assessment Centre is staffed 24/7.
The hostels are in close proximity to each other, and staff will be expected to work across the units. Three of the hostels supports both male and female customers and one is males only.

Heaney Hub implements and promotes the Psychologically Informed Environment (PIE) model. This is an approach to supporting people out of homelessness, particularly those who have experienced complex trauma or are diagnosed with a personality disorder. It also considers the psychological needs of staff: developing skills and knowledge, increasing motivation, job satisfaction and resilience.

Support Workers will devise person centred support plans with customers to help them develop the life skills they require to meet their needs and goals. This will include sign-posting them to the local drug and alcohol services to address substance misuse issues. They will work with customers to promote social inclusion and alongside other members of the team to promote independent living, encouraging customers to maximise their skills and choices.

The team comprises of Therapist, Move on coordinator, Housing Officer, 16 support workers, 2 Team Leaders, One Project Manager.

The role requires one to work on a shift pattern:7.45am to 3.45pm and 2.00pm to 10pm.

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 2 or equivalent or experience within charity/social care sector

Desirable:

Relevant experience in supporting those experiencing homelessness and people with complex needs

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Build flexibly on your Charity Career with this person-centred charity supporting unpaid carers

This is a full-time role in a well-established charity based in Twickenham. This role would suit someone who wants to have the opportunity to work flexibly and build their career in the Charity sector with experience of working in social care.

Richmond Carers Centre has the mission to help unpaid adult carers to live a full, active and meaningful life by providing them with advice, information, activities, breaks and emotional support either face to face, by phone or by email to enable them to live well.

As a Support Worker, you will be part of a small, dedicated team and take a lead on providing emotional support to adult carers and a commitment to enhancing their health and wellbeing. Much of your work will involve actively listening to carers, often via the phone support line, providing information, advice and support.

As part of the Adult Carers Support Team, you will also be involved in organising breaks for carers, outreach activities and leisure events, as well as group work to help enhance carers’ health and wellbeing. Part of the role will also aim to improve the identification, recognition and understanding of the needs of adult carers, raise the profile of adult carers and ensure adult carers needs are met. You will also be expected to work with our volunteers and to use appropriate monitoring and evaluation reports to show our funders what we have achieved.

You will be someone:

• Who works in a person-centred way
• Is enthusiastic, empathetic and detail conscious
• Communicates well by phone and in person
• Has an understanding of social care particularly in relation to carers
• Has experience of working with clients who have support needs
• Has experience of producing reports for monitoring and evaluation
• Is numerate and has knowledge of budgeting
• Is able to gather and assess information efficiently and think creatively to come up with solutions
• Has good communication skills including spoken, written and presentational

Main Duties include:

• To provide a regular telephone support-line, face-to-face and email support, offering appropriate, generic advice
• To offer a range of service delivery options and be involved in providing those options e.g., breaks, group work, leisure activities or other outreach activities
• To encourage and assist carers and those they care for to access Care Needs Assessments and Carers Assessments and to take up services that will enhance their lives
• To complete individual grant applications with carers for respite or if they are experiencing financial hardship due to the cost-of-living crisis
• To work where appropriate with other service providers/agencies to promote the carer agenda or jointly deliver carer support issues
• To be proactive in the registration of carers living or caring for someone within the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
• To keep accurate records of group and individual carer engagement for monitoring and evaluation purposes
• To participate in key events organised by Richmond Carers Centre and other relevant partners to promote services to a wider public

What you are doing now:

• You might be working for or volunteering in a similar charity
• You may be working in social care for a local authority or district council
• You may have the skills we need from some other combination of work and volunteering
• Or you may be looking to return to the workforce after a timeout for personal reasons

In any event if you feel you meet the skills we need, we would like to hear from you

Richmond Carers Centre welcomes and encourages applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, or religious belief.

Benefits of working for Richmond Carers Centre:

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays per year (pro rata)
• Bonus 3 days of annual leave per year over the festive period (subject to Trustee approval)
• Workplace Pension Scheme with Peoples Pension
• Flexible working/option of working from home (subject to CEO approval)
• Equipment and support to be set up to work from home
• Paid time off for medical appointments
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Training and personal development opportunities
• Staff away days and socials
• Access to shared resources and training opportunities
• Supportive and friendly working environment

To apply for the role please send your CV and covering letter outlining how you meet the key requirements for the role to our HR Consultant; Viv Sage.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, therefore please submit your application early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close before the closing date. 

Closing date: Friday 28th November 2025

Shortlisting date: Ongoing throughout with Viv Sage

Interview dates with Richmond Carers Centre: Weeks commencing 8th December and 15th December

Please note interview dates can also be scheduled around these dates to fit with the interview panel and candidates availability.